Notre Dame College Hosts Global Expert on Women in Public Service, Politics

Notre Dame College is the site of a guest lecture by a global expert on women in public service and politics, who is herself a government official who has been part of the Northern Ireland peace process.

Mary Hanafin, who has served numerous roles in government in Ireland, will speak from 12:15-1 p.m. Monday, March 13, in the Great Room of the College's. Currently elected a councilor in her local Irish government, Hanafin is involved in the The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development program, promoting the participation of women in political life.

In addition to her accomplishments, Hanafin has faced multiple adversities throughout her public service.

As part of the Northern Ireland peace process, Hanafin was a member of the North-South Ministerial Council and involved in a number of cross-border initiatives. She also has chaired meetings of the Council of the European Union government ministers.

In addition to her role with European Union ministers, Hanafin, including as Minister for Children in 2000-2002; Government Chief Whip from 2002-2004; Minister for Education and Science for 2004-2008; Minister for Social and Family Affairs from 2008-2010; Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport for 2010-2011; and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation in 2011.

She has been named Politician of the Year and Woman of the Year, among other honors.

A teacher by profession, Hanafin has taught Gaeilge and history in a girls’ second-level school. She earned a master’s degree in American studies from the Clinton Institute in University College Dublin.

March 2017

About Notre Dame College

For almost a century, Notre Dame College has educated a diverse population in the liberal arts for personal, professional and global responsibility. Founded by the Sisters of Notre Dame in 1922, the College has grown strategically to keep pace with the rapidly changing needs of students and the dramatic changes in higher education. But it has never lost sight of its emphasis on teaching students not only how to make a good living but also how to live a good life.

Today, the College offers bachelor’s degrees in 30 disciplines plus a variety of master's degrees, certification programs and continuing and professional development programs for adult learners on campus and online. Notre Dame College offers NCAA Division II intercollegiate athletic programs for men and women and is located in a picturesque residential neighborhood just 25 minutes from the heart of Cleveland. Hallmarks of the Notre Dame experience include stimulating academics, personalized attention of dedicated faculty and staff, and small class sizes.

Notre Dame College is located at 4545 College Road in South Euclid. For further information contact Brian Johnston, chief communications officer, at 216.373.5252 or bjohnston@ndc.edu.